Lime in glass – a vital component

Lime and limestone are essential components in glassmaking. When lime is heated with silica sand (SiO2) and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), a solution is formed that does not crystallize when cooled. Instead, it hardens to an amorphous, clear and nearly colourless solid - namely, glass. A range of chemical limestone and lime product types are available for general applications and achieving various properties such as; flux capture, managing viscosity, improving durability and chemical resistance.

Lime in glass

Did you know?

There are three distinct types of limestone, defined by their magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) concentrations. These types are Dolomitic (35 to 46% MgCO3), Magnesian (5 to 35% MgCO3) and High calcium (less than 5% MgCO3).